Final unofficial results show Douglas voters opposing the proposal 63 percent to 37 percent, while Saugatuck's vote was 60 percent against to 40 percent in favor.

The Allegan County communities are about 40 miles southwest of Grand Rapids and are best-known as destinations for summer visitors who flock to beaches, restaurants and arts events.

Saugatuck has about 900 residents and Douglas about 1,200. Supporters of a merger say it makes sense to combine governments and services.

Campaign records show merger opponents have been greatly outspending by supporters.

Flint area voters elect Democrat Phil Phelps to state House

Democrat Phil Phelps has won a three-way race to represent the Flint area in the Michigan House of Representatives.

Phelps defeated Republican Don Pfeiffer and Libertarian Pat Clawson in Tuesday's special election for the heavily Democratic 49th House District seat.

The Genesee County seat was vacated when former Democratic Rep. Jim Ananich was sworn into the state Senate in May.

Phelps is a former legislative aide. Pfeiffer owns consulting businesses.

Republicans have a 59-50 edge over Democrats in the House, with one independent. Phelps will serve through 2014 and can run for re-election.

Traverse City mayor wins 3rd term after guilty plea

Traverse City Mayor Michael Estes won re-election a day after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor charge of driving while impaired.

He defeated Rick Buckhalter in Tuesday's election to earn a third two-year term. He won the mayor's post in 2007 and 2011.

The 63-year-old was pulled over Oct. 23 after a candidates' forum. Police spotted his pickup truck weaving across turn and bike lanes on a downtown street. A breath test recorded a blood-alcohol content of 0.12 percent, exceeding the 0.08 percent legal limit for driving.

Estes pleaded guilty on Monday and faces a possible punishment of up to 93 days in jail. He has asked for the public's forgiveness.

3 Michigan cities vote to ease marijuana laws

Voters in three Michigan cities have given a big thumbs up to proposals offering some legal protection to users of small amounts of marijuana.

Proposals on the ballot Tuesday in Ferndale, Jackson and Lansing call on police to ignore possession of an ounce or less of marijuana on private property. People must be at least 21 years old.